In today’s competitive and ever-evolving work environment, doing your job well often means showing initiative and improving your skills proactively. Getting the right skills for promotion is essential for moving up the ladder at work. But how do you know where to start? Here are a few ways you can begin improving your skills to get the promotion you want.
Take Public Speaking Classes
Public speaking classes are beneficial no matter what type of job you have. You’ll be more confident when addressing your boss, customers and coworkers. You’ll be ready to jump in and lead a presentation or meeting when needed. If you want to learn these skills for free, there are online options. But to really hone your skills, you’ll need to practice in front of a live audience. Toastmasters is a great resource for doing just that.
Improve Your Interpersonal Communication Skills
Effectively communicating with others is valuable at work and at home. Beyond simply speaking, this includes listening, reading body language and understanding that other points of view are all essential elements.
Learn to be a better communicator and set yourself up for success in a management position by taking free, online courses like the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Management Communication for Undergraduates.
Learn Budgeting and Accounting
Unless you’re already an accountant, you’ll likely benefit from budget and finance training. The American Management Association offers classes on navigating the current economy and developing financial management strategies. As you’re given more leadership responsibilities at work, knowing how to handle a budget will come in handy. At home, managing your own budget effectively can help you achieve your financial goals, like buying a house.
Become a Master Negotiator
Next time you ask for a raise or talk salary with a hiring manager, effective negotiation skills can boost your chances of getting your target number. Knowing how to negotiate can also help you diffuse conflicts with clients and coworkers. Being known as a level-headed peacemaker can only help your career. There are many online classes on the topic, including this salary negotiation course on Udemy.
Learn Your Colleagues’ Jobs
Everyone likes a team player — especially your manager. If you move far enough up the ladder, you may eventually find yourself vying for a promotion that would leave you overseeing more people than before. It’ll be important to show that you understand the jobs of your potential new direct reports. Master professional skills that are relevant to your industry, even if you aren’t expected to do them yourself. That way you can better understand the organization as a whole and, if needed, you can jump in and help out.
Ask Your Boss About Attending Seminars
Don’t hone all these skills for promotion in secret. Ask your boss what seminars they recommend. Including your supervisor in your educational pursuit will show that you’re serious and ensure that your efforts don’t go unnoticed. You might even be given time off work for a conference closely related to the company’s goals.
It’s always a good time to push yourself forward. However, it can be overwhelming to commit to an area of development. If you aren’t sure what the next step is for you, visit iLearn and explore free courses for personal and professional development. You never know what paths are open to you, until you take them.
